I just thought the week we had a dead battery was tough. This week made that one look like recess. By the end of the day yesterday, I was not my usually cheery self. I usually try to avoid writing about tough times, but as a part of life, those times are inevitable. One of my sanctuaries this week has been pouring myself into my marathon training. The structure and plan has given me something to focus on and take my mind off of difficulty.
An incident after yesterday's run brought me to a breaking point. A discussion with my husband helped me find the perspective I needed. He reminded me of a verse he turns to when things like this happen: "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you." I Peter 4:12 (NASB)
My response was the verse I turn to: "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 (NASB)
I have also let these lyrics run over my mind this morning as I face today with a different attitude. This is from tobymac's "Get Back Up"
We lose our way,
We get back up again
It's never too late to get back up again,
One day you will shine again,
You may be knocked down,
But not out forever
You can find the full lyrics here.
Do you have a verse you turn to? Or maybe a specific song that helps you when times are rough?
Friday, October 12, 2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
A Reason to Celebrate
This weekend, our family will celebrate another child's birthday. It's not the fact that I have a class reunion this month, or that I'm pushing a certain milestone age myself (but not quite) that makes me feel old. But every time one of my children has a birthday, I sure feel old.
My oldest child will turn 16, a milestone eagerly awaited by most teenagers. Don't worry, the streets will still be safe. The issue of driving hasn't even made it to the table. While I say this jokingly, I come to this birthday with an apprehension different from most other parents. I don't mince words when I say there was a time I couldn't imagine how we would make it this far.
Family, close friends, and some members of our church family know some of the trials we endured. It is with great joy that I am able to share how he has moved forward.
We began our second year of homeschooling in September. The child who resisted schoolwork most of last year, asked me to spend more time teaching him this year. He told me he wants to go to a good college. The first two weeks of school were uneventful, and I held my breath. I kept waiting for the meltdown that didn't come. Instead of enjoying this time when things were rolling along smoothly, I waited for the difficulty.
After a month, I decided I could breathe a little and delight in this change. This week, Austin made this statement: "You know, I had a good Monday." (Mondays are typically our worst days.) I nodded, "Yes, I had a good Monday too. How nice is that?"
For years, I have prayed that he would "get it" - for something to click, and while he still has challenges, I rejoice in the progress he has made. I am proud of his accomplishments and have a bright hope for his future.
What will you find to celebrate today?
My oldest child will turn 16, a milestone eagerly awaited by most teenagers. Don't worry, the streets will still be safe. The issue of driving hasn't even made it to the table. While I say this jokingly, I come to this birthday with an apprehension different from most other parents. I don't mince words when I say there was a time I couldn't imagine how we would make it this far.
Family, close friends, and some members of our church family know some of the trials we endured. It is with great joy that I am able to share how he has moved forward.
We began our second year of homeschooling in September. The child who resisted schoolwork most of last year, asked me to spend more time teaching him this year. He told me he wants to go to a good college. The first two weeks of school were uneventful, and I held my breath. I kept waiting for the meltdown that didn't come. Instead of enjoying this time when things were rolling along smoothly, I waited for the difficulty.
After a month, I decided I could breathe a little and delight in this change. This week, Austin made this statement: "You know, I had a good Monday." (Mondays are typically our worst days.) I nodded, "Yes, I had a good Monday too. How nice is that?"
For years, I have prayed that he would "get it" - for something to click, and while he still has challenges, I rejoice in the progress he has made. I am proud of his accomplishments and have a bright hope for his future.
What will you find to celebrate today?
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